The esteemed Cuban babalawo, Lázaro Faustino Cuesta Valdés (Awo Iwori Bofun), recently engaged in an insightful interview with CiberCuba, addressing eight questions regarding the Year’s Letter from the Comisión Miguel Febles. This independent Yoruba group in Cuba is under his leadership. The conversation was facilitated by fellow babalawos Juan Antonio Blanco Alzola (Awo Osa Kuleya) and Iván Enrique Duany Hoyos (Awo Irete Kutan). On December 31, 2024, Cuesta and other religious leaders gathered at the Casona de Diez de Octubre for the annual opening ceremony, an event that captivates both believers and non-believers across Cuba.
The Year’s Letter from the Casona de Diez de Octubre forecasts troubling social issues such as family breakdowns, child abandonment, crimes against minors, infant mortality, low birth rates, and increased violence. With these alarming predictions, many wonder what can be done. The word of Ifa presents a sign that highlights possible challenges throughout the year and offers suggestions for improvement. Practicing religious individuals can perform the recommended works and Ebboses, aiming for positive outcomes. However, the ultimate solutions rely on those in power who can prevent or address these issues, namely the government officials.
Facing Uncomfortable Truths
Among the predictions are job dismissals and changes in high-ranking positions. Does this concern Cuesta? Can Cubans expect transformations or hope for improvements in 2025? Cuesta acknowledges that predictions can be unsettling, but insists their duty is to voice them so everyone listens. If there is genuine will, solutions can be found to resolve or mitigate these issues. While change is desired, executing it is beyond their control. Hope is indeed present, but it requires those with authority to commit to necessary changes for achieving the desired success.
Timing of the Year’s Letter
Why is the Year’s Letter from the Comisión Miguel Febles released after the one from the Asociación Yoruba? Has there been any reconciliation between the two groups? The process of the Opening Ceremonies takes time. After conducting these ceremonies and obtaining the sign and predictions, the group leaders convene to derive guidance from the Patakies, which are then discussed in a news conference. Their aim isn’t to be the first to present the guidelines, but rather to convey the message in an understandable manner to practitioners and the public. Since their failed attempt at collaboration, they haven’t reunited, though they continue to respect each other's working methods.
Increased Religious Devotion in Hard Times
In challenging times, religious fervor often intensifies. Is this noticeable within the Yoruba faith? Cuesta observes that in difficult moments, people seek solace in faith, hoping for solutions. He notes a rise in the number of worshippers seeking religious assistance at their temple houses, driven by firsthand experience.
The First Appearance of the Odibre Sign
This is the first appearance of the Odibre sign. Should this be a cause for concern? Cuesta asserts that despite various warnings in past Letters, there has been insufficient attention. He believes there is reason for concern, as each year the signs indicate escalating adversities. Failure to address these issues promptly only compounds them, making them more perilous.
Message of Hope
Could you offer a message of hope to Cubans? As a practicing religious individual, Cuesta holds onto faith and hope for improvement, believing the conditions for betterment exist. Living without faith, he says, is akin to attending the soul's burial while still alive.
FAQs on the Year’s Predictions and Their Impact
What are the key social issues predicted in the Year’s Letter?
The Year’s Letter forecasts issues such as family breakdowns, child abandonment, crimes against minors, infant mortality, low birth rates, and increased violence.
Why does the Comisión Miguel Febles release its Year’s Letter after the Asociación Yoruba?
The opening ceremonies and subsequent evaluations by group leaders take time, as they aim to convey the message clearly to practitioners and the public, rather than rushing to be first.
How does the Yoruba faith respond to increased devotion during difficult times?
In challenging times, more individuals seek refuge and solutions through faith, resulting in increased attendance at their temple houses.